A Comparison of Client/Server Development Tools; Powerbuilder vs. Delphi.
By Michael Lant
Sphere Data Systems Inc.
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Summary: Only
Delphi Client/Server Suite 2.0 delivers client and
server development tools that allow developers to optimize applications
for both sides of the client/server application. Delphi Client/Server
Suite 2.0 incorporates a full suite of powerfully integrated development
tools to assist the developer in building robust, full featured
applications with optimal performance. Tools include:

SQL Monitor to trace client
calls to the server and allow for optimization of database access.

SQL Explorer to browse
and modify database information such as meta data.

Integrated industry standard
PVCS Version control for sophisticated team development.

InterBase NT for creation
and testing of high performance multi-user relational database
applications.

Object Repository for
optimal reusability of objects amongst the team.

Delphi
Client / Server Suite 2.0 includes a complete set of tools for
client side development and server management with exclusive tools
like SQL Explorer, SQL Monitor, integrated PVCS version management,
Object Repository, Scaleable Database Dictionary and InterBase
NT. Together these tools offer the client/server developer the
ability to create high performance, scaleable applications. For
more information about any of these tools please consult "Delphi
Client/Server Suite 2.0 Database Architecture White Paper."

On the other hand, PowerBuilder
developers must purchase additional third party tools which represent
additional costs to the company. Also, the tools are less integrated
into the environment which results in higher development costs.

C. SQL Explorer Administers MetaData
The SQL Explorer, unique to
Delphi, makes database administration easier and more intuitive
than having to use a separate non-integrated tool. A simple to
use graphical interface is a perfect way to represent the complex
relationships that exist in a database server. The SQL Explorer
presents schema information from Oracle, Sybase, InterBase, Informix,
DB2 and others. The developer can drag and drop fields, tables,
and stored procedures onto the Delphi application form to build
Client / Server database applications quickly. The
developer can also issue SQL statements directed to multiple servers
and multiple databases.

The SQL Explorer simplifies
working with Server side data and saves development time. A Database
Administrators valuable time is not relied upon to answers simple
questions and the developer can achieve the same results quickly
and easily thereby increasing productivity. Again, the PowerBuilder
developer must purchase a separate tool; adding to their costs
and decreasing productivity or have ready access to a DBA.